Design Career Handbook

Everything You Need to Know to Get a Job and Be Successful

By Kevin Flores and Jeanine Flores

Embark on your career journey with confidence using the Design Career Handbook, your ultimate companion to success in the dynamic world of design professions. Authored by seasoned industry experts, this comprehensive guide presents invaluable insights and practical advice for self-taught artists, students, career changers, and working designers.

Structured for flexibility, this book empowers you to explore topics at your own pace, making it your indispensable roadmap to a fulfilling career in design.

Design Career Handbook

Paperback ISBN: 979-8-9906318-0-9 | Ebook ISBN: 979-8-9906318-1-6

Published: August 2024 | Paperback: 360 pages

What people are saying.

  • This might be the first book I've read on design that offers a thorough and satisfying guide to the "work" and "job" of design. It's thorough, entertaining, funny, inspiring, and packed with references and sources from some of the coolest working designers out there. This is an impressively centralized source of information on an opaque and sometimes splintered industry -- an indispensable result.

    - Jack J

  • It's a must-read for anyone navigating the design world. Whether you’re a student, entrepreneur, or seasoned professional, this handbook is packed with insights, inspiration, and practical advice to help you thrive—especially in today’s challenging job market. I’ve had countless conversations with people who are uncertain about their next steps. This book might just be the spark you need to explore new possibilities and find hope in the pages ahead.

    - Monique J

  • Written by true design leaders with genuine empathy and deep connection to the design community. Their years of mentorship, along with tremendous success leading design at some of the world’s largest tech companies, are a testament to this. In these somewhat challenging times for design, The 'Design Career Handbook' is a must-read for everyone in the industry—don’t miss it.

    - Jacob J

  • The 'Design Career Handbook’ is your comprehensive guide, covering everything from mastering the basics and exploring educational paths to perfecting your portfolio and acing job applications. I’m on Chapter 22, ‘Apply for Jobs,’ which is packed with practical tips, networking effectively, and making your portfolio and resume stand out. I’m eagerly anticipating the sections on what hiring managers look for and how to excel in interviews.

    - Anna P

  • Building and growing the next generation of design leaders requires those of us with the experience to freely share our knowledge and provide career growth opportunities wherever we can. It’s how a healthy and prosperous community is built. I am proud to have had the opportunity to contribute some of that knowledge to Kevin and Jeanine’s new book.

    - Adrian P

  • I love that this book offers different perspectives to help guide future designers toward their dream careers, and how current designers can excel in their current roles. I especially appreciate the information on soft skills, which are often overlooked but crucial for success. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up, this book is a must-read!

    - Bryan S

ABOUT THE BOOK

Do you like being creative, solving problems, and understanding how and why things are made? Excellent! These are all traits of a fantastic designer. But you may have many questions about design as a profession. What kind of jobs are there? What do I need to learn? How do I get my first job? What does it take to have a successful career in design?

Working designers will find many advanced topics, such as avoiding imposter syndrome, succeeding in your job, leveling up, getting promoted, and planning your future.

We’ve reviewed thousands of resumes and portfolios, interviewed and hired designers at all levels, and taught, mentored, and managed people at all career stages, supporting their growth and aspirations. We’ve gained so much from the design industry that we’re excited to share back.

In addition to our personal experiences, we interviewed different types of designers to include diverse perspectives.

In this book, you’ll discover:

  • Essential design fundamentals

  • Different educational routes

  • Descriptions for a broad range of design jobs

  • Guidance to develop a stand-out portfolio

  • Comparisons of working at different size companies

  • Critical steps to set up a freelance business

  • Tips to search and apply for jobs that are a great fit

  • Insight into what recruiters and hiring managers look for

  • How to nail interviews, design challenges, and presentations

  • Tools to be successful in your first (or next) design job

  • Advice on how to make an impact and shine in performance reviews

  • Strategies for your development and career growth

  • And much more!

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ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Kevin and Jeanine Flores have collaborated since meeting as design undergraduates at the University of Illinois. They went on to cofound an agency in Silicon Valley during the 90s. Highlights of their work were published in two books on interface design and recognized by industry awards. Before their career paths diverged, they worked as successful freelance designers on everything from brand and social media marketing to consumer hardware and mobile apps.

Kevin acquired significant insights and experience in entrepreneurship through his involvement in multiple startup ventures. He then built and led product and design teams at Verizon, 23andMe, and LinkedIn. He co-authored more than twenty web and mobile technology patents and worked for a pop star. Kevin continues to serve as a consultant, mentor, and coach in the design community.

Jeanine now applies her industry experience to bring relevant challenges to her students in higher education. She teaches graphic design theory, typography, page layout, and branding to inspire and prepare the next generation of designers. Jeanine earned a Master of Science degree in Online Education focusing on instructional design–invaluable as academia needs to keep up with technology.

Kevin and Jeanine Flores